The race to sign one of the NHL’s most accomplished unrestricted free agents has turned into a fierce battle, but the Edmonton Oilers and Toronto Maple Leafs now appear to be on the outside looking in.
Maple Leafs, Oilers Trail in Chase For All-Star Forward
Seven-time NHL All-Star Claude Giroux remains one of the biggest names available on the free-agent market.
Reports surfaced late last week suggesting Giroux was close to returning to Philadelphia. However, those reports were quickly challenged, with insiders indicating the 38-year-old has not yet made a final decision.
As he prepares for what could be the final season of his 19-year NHL career, Giroux is taking his time before choosing his next destination.
Speaking on the situation, Elliotte Friedman said, “There were reports on Friday that he was going to Philadelphia and I couldn’t confirm that. I did ask… Edmonton was in there. Toronto was definitely in there. I think actually Toronto might’ve bid the most money.”
Friedman added that one person he spoke with believes Giroux is waiting to see if another contender can convince him to change his mind before committing to Philadelphia.
“They think he wants to go to Philadelphia, and he’s waiting to see if anybody can really change his mind. But I don’t want that reported as fact because that was just this guy’s opinion, and it could be wrong,” he added.
The comments suggest Giroux’s preference may still be a return to the Flyers, but the door remains open if another Stanley Cup contender makes the right offer.
That leaves Toronto and Edmonton in the conversation.
Although the Maple Leafs are about $2.75 million over the salary cap, they could structure a one-year, bonus-heavy contract that pushes any excess bonuses to next season. On the ice, Giroux would give Toronto a versatile middle-six forward who brings scoring, leadership, and the ability to play either center or wing alongside players like John Tavares.
Before falling behind in the race, the Oilers viewed Claude Giroux as an ideal addition to their middle-six. After clearing more than $7.25 million in cap space by trading Darnell Nurse, GM Stan Bowman positioned Edmonton to win now under new coach Mike Babcock.
Time could also work in both teams’ favor.
The Flyers are still waiting to learn whether the Anaheim Ducks will match their five-year, $90 million offer sheet for Leo Carlsson. Until that situation is resolved, Philadelphia’s salary cap picture remains uncertain, making it difficult to finalize a deal with Giroux.
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For now, Giroux’s decision remains up in the air. While the Maple Leafs and Oilers are still in the mix, Philadelphia continues to be viewed as the favorite unless another contender can convince the veteran forward to change course.
